Training Camp Report, Cincinnati Bengals

Photo: David Kohl, USA Today Sports

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Summary from the Final Week of Camp

Quarterbacks

Joe Burrow pushed to play in the preseason finale, and head coach Zac Taylor granted his wish. Burrow played three snaps and only attempted one short pass, but it was an important psychological hurdle for the young passer to overcome as he returned from last year’s season-ending ACL tear. Camp ended on a high note for Burrow, as he strung together a series of impressive practices showing the accuracy and velocity that made him the first overall pick a season ago. Brandon Allen is locked in as the backup. Kyle Shurmur was impressive against the Dolphins, completing 18-of-27 for 206 yards and a touchdown, but it’s probably not enough to make the 53-man roster.

Running Backs

The pecking order at running back is clear. Joe Mixon is the lead back and should dominate the snaps. He played just a few snaps in the preseason finale, carrying it once for five yards. Samaje Perine is the top backup and would likely be a workhorse in any games Mixon misses. Chris Evans is a roster lock as the No. 3. The rookie has impressed as a receiver and should instantly have a role on third downs. He caught a 29-yard touchdown on a wheel route against the Dolphins. After missing most of camp, Trayveon Williams returned for the final preseason game and ran well. He racked up 44 rushing yards, though it proved to be too little, too late for his roster chances as he and Jacques Patrick didn’t stick on the 53-man roster.